Backcountry ski packing list

Essentials

• [ ] Skis

• [ ] Skins

• [ ] Wax

• [ ] Ski boots

• [ ] Poles

• [ ] Helmet / warm hat

• [ ] Ski goggles / sunglasses

• [ ] Avalanche backpack

  • [ ] Beacon (check battery!)

  • [ ] Probe

  • [ ] Shovel

• [ ] Base layer

• [ ] Down jacket

• [ ] Hardshell jacket

• [ ] Ski pants

• [ ] Ski socks

• [ ] Sunscreen

• [ ] Neck warmer

• [ ] Light gloves

• [ ] Heavy gloves

• [ ] Food

  • [ ] Water bottle / bladder

  • [ ] Lunch

Gear

• Black Crows Camox Freebird Skis — good balance between backcountry and resort needs; I was trying to get one pair of skis that can do it all (with one pair of bindings); I like them

• Salomon S/Lab Shift bindings — easy to transition, can use in-bounds too!

• Black Diamond Traverse Ski Poles — adjustable; not super compact, but more durable; I almost never adjust the height though; could probably get away with fixed poles.

• Black Diamond GlideLite Mohair Mix Skins — so far, they work well

• G3 Climbing Skins Trim Tool — pretty sweet tool; has an offset built in to keep edges free

• Backcountry Access T S Transceiver / Probe / Shovel Rescue Package — most of these are made pretty similarly; if not BCA, Black Diamond has a good offering

• G3 Climbing Skin Wax Kit — comes with a scraper too

• Voile Strap — can use to lash skis together, or to fix broken bindings, etc.

• Osprey Soelden 32 backpack — I bought two Avalanche airbag packs and returned both for this more minimal pack. Has a dedicated section for avalanche kit / wet skins + separate pocket for ski goggles + helmet carry. 32L is the right size for all-day tours.